Bookstores continue to struggle, why do you believe they will always be around?

"Bookstores have to compete with online shops and larger retailers, but they offer something special that you cannot buy from its competition: Community. People value a sense of community and connection."

Here is your opportunity to explain to the interviewer why you believe their store will continue to prosper, despite online competition and big box stores. Show your knowledge of the industry and express the value you see in small, independent retailers.

"I believe that bookstores will always be around because most dedicated readers are committed to reading physical books, rather than digital versions. Also, consumers are becoming more aware of the importance of supporting local business. It's become an entire movement that I do not think is going away."

"There are aspects that online stores cannot capture which is why I believe that brick and mortar bookstores will always have a presence. Your store holds weekly events, author readings, and a personal touch that keeps your customers excited about their experiences here. You create raving fans with every transaction, and that is invaluable!"

Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?

"At this point in my career, I value fit and hours more than I do compensation."

In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job.

"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture which includes factors such as benefits, employee discounts, commission opportunities, and workplace culture."

"Several factors are important to me when taking a job. Compensation is a driving component of that along with company mission, culture, benefits, and location."

"Since this is my first time taking a job, I am focused on receiving experience and hours."

How many days were you absent from work last year?

"I cannot recall the exact number, but I think it was around three days total. All absences were excused and with notice."

A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.

"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2, and those were accompanied by a note from my doctor. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm, and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."

"I think I missed ten days, counting vacation time. Of those, five were for my vacation. For three days, I was excused under a doctor's note. The other two absences were pre-approved family days."

"I have no prior work experience."

What type of manager brings out the best in you?

"I prefer managers who give me an assignment and let me run with it. I don't like to be micro-managed. If I need help or need to provide regular updates, I certainly will do so on my own."

The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability, while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.

"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best with a manager who allows me autonomy while still investing time in me through mentorship and training. Can you describe the management style here?"

"I work best with managers who are highly communicative and approachable. I don't enjoy working in a hierarchy based environment as I find it does not offer room for new ideas and creative thinking. How would you describe your management style?"

"I prefer managers who show me the ropes and then let me roll with any assignments on my own."

Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.

"I enjoy going above and beyond with my work. In my last position, I regularly called customers just to let them know that we had a new product coming into the store, or a great sale coming up."

Display to the interviewer that you can do more than just the bare minimum. Show that you can react well when you see that your employer has a need that goes beyond your usual day-to-day expectations.

"Last week I noticed that my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some of the staff were complaining that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her workload so that she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and were able to catch her up on everything. It felt good to help."

"I often go above and beyond what is expected of me. Most recently, I agreed to cover for a co-worker who was on short-term medical leave. I worked 10 hour days for two weeks so that our work did not suffer any setbacks."

"I tend to be an overachiever and try my best with everything. I also like helping others in any way I can. I help my friends and family with projects and big chores they have for me."

Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I also am a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you."

The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is written on your resume. You are not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids, or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! Focus on special non-work related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when it's possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

"I am a certified yoga instructor, and I spent those three months after college traveling and doing yoga. I spent six weeks in Asia and another six weeks in Latin America, and it was a fantastic experience that helped me to grow as both a yogi and a person. I am currently writing a guide for yogi's traveling through Asia."

"I am bilingual; I speak English during the day and Bengali at night."

How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?

"I am very simple. I do not require any formal recognition, but kind words from my coworkers and superiors will keep me motivated and working hard."

The interviewer would like to know what motivates you to be an over-achiever in the workplace. We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want recognition for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?

"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is to be given words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."

"I am in sales, so I obviously love competition and winning, not to mention the financial reward. Beyond that, I love accolades given, in sincerity, by those whom I respect."

Do you have any leadership experience in a retail environment?

"At this time, I do not have formal leadership experience; however, I do lead by example every day in my current role. I help new team members and will pitch in often before being asked. Part of my career aspirations are to land a role in leadership, and I welcome the opportunity to work closely with or grow into a management job in your bookstore."

This question is an excellent chance for you to share any specific leadership experience you have had and if this is something you aspire for in your career. Be as accurate as possible to include details on the type of activities you participated in and what the results were.

"I have approximately one year experience in retail leadership, in my current role. I help to train new employees, set sales goals, and create the schedule. If a team member is not performing, I will meet with them to encourage them and find out what their roadblock to success may be."

"Yes, I have worked closely with previous leaders in a retail environment. As one of the store's top performers, I was often called upon by the leadership team to run daily huddles for our team, participate in training or mentoring new hires and assist with management responsibilities for the store."

Have you had sales goals in any previous roles?

"Although I have not had specific sales targets in any job, I understand the importance of knowing how to track sales and upsell a customer. Do you provide clear sales goals for this role?"

Here is your opportunity to highlight any specific sales goals you have accomplished in the past. Where applicable, mention particular sales goals and what your results were. You can also share any methods for maintaining or exceeding these goals on a frequent basis. Be sure to ask about the sales goals and targets present in this role.

"All retail jobs that I have held came with sales goals. I enjoy exceeding the goals set for me. In past roles, I have been measured by my average sale for each transaction and my ability to add on specific items that were in an accessory category. What are the sales goals in this role?"

"In my current position, I am measured based on the number of memberships I sell. To help myself, and my team to succeed, I came up with a script that was customer friendly and non-invasive to share the features and benefits of having an annual membership. It is an effective method, and I am always #1 in sales memberships for our group."

If a customer was looking for a particular book that we did not have, how would you turn that into a sale?

"If a customer were looking for a particular book that we did not have, I would let the customer know that we could order the book with a small deposit. This way, the sale is secured, and the customer leaves feeling that they have been taken care of."

The interviewer would like to know that you can create alternate scenarios that will help the customer, and create a sale, at the same time. Show that you can think critically, actively make new book recommendations, and upsell.

"There are a few customer care techniques I apply to keep a positive customer experience. First, I will compliment the customer for their interest in such a great book. If I have read it, I will make a personal recommendation for a similar book. Next, where applicable, I will custom order this book for the client online, delivered to the store or their home."

"I have a two-part solution when a customer wants a product that we do not have in stock. I would offer to order the book for them. Then, I ask the customer what they are currently reading and how far into the book they are. If they are nearing the finish, I will recommend a similar book to that one and suggest they purchase it. This way, the customer leaves with something to read while they await their special order. I have upsold the customer, and the customer leaves happy. Win-win, in my opinion!"

Are you comfortable handling a cash register and managing transactions?

"Although I am new to the workforce, I am confident in my ability to manage cash and credit card transactions. With just a little bit of training, I will be good to go! Is there any program that I can begin to study, to get a head start?"

The interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable, and experienced when it comes to handling sales transactions. If you have experience with a particular type of program, you can indeed mention the names of the programs.

"Customer sales support is part of the role as a customer service representative in a retail setting. I take pride in ensuring accuracy in all transactions and am comfortable handling registers. I have experience with POS and the use of Moneris."

"Handling sales transactions was a large part of my last role in a fashion retail store. Every day included cash transactions and settling the till at the end of the shift to make sure all purchases were accounted for. Many times, my manager relied on me to transfer the funds to the bank or pick up deposit slips for the store."

"With a little bit of training, I can manage cash and credit transactions."

Do you have a favorite author?

"I quite prefer to read a book by more classic authors. My favorite author of all time is Ernest Hemingway. I just finished reading 'The Sun Also Rises,' which I have read three times. Next, I am going to read one of his newer books, 'A Moveable Feast.' "

Here is your opportunity to share with the interviewer if you have a favorite author and why. There is no right or wrong answer; however, be sure to show some excitement and be prepared with a well-researched answer.For example "Hands down, my favorite author is Tony Robbins. I am currently reading his book, 'Unshakeable.' His enthusiasm for personal and professional development excites me. He writes on a relatable level and shares experiences that resonate with me."

"Hands down, my favorite author is Tony Robbins. I am currently reading his book, 'Unshakeable.' His enthusiasm for personal and professional development excites me. He writes on a relatable level and shares experiences that resonate with me."

"I have many favorite authors across a few different genres. I am a very avid reader, so it's difficult to choose. My top favorites are Elizabeth Gilbert and Paulo Coelho. Which authors are your favorite?"

"I enjoyed many different books by many authors, so I don't have a particular favorite author. However, after reading "The Night Circus," I do like Erin Morgenstern's lyrical writing style."

How would you keep a customer engaged and excited about being in our store?

"I am here to deliver excellence in service and provide customers with the space to explore the store on their own. I am certain your customers will find it a positive experience to meet me!"

This question will show the interviewer more about your customer service style. Highlight how you will treat their customers and what your communication style looks like. Share how you can engage with them by asking probing questions about their intended purchase or getting to know their literature related interests.

"Customer service is everything, and I am excited to transfer my passion to each customer who walks through the door. To keep a customer engaged, I welcome each client into the store, offer them coffee, and get to know them based on the books they enjoy reading."

"I keep customers engaged by getting to know their likes, making book recommendations based on their previous purchases, and also inviting them to author readings and other events. Also, I am great with social media and can create an engaged following on Facebook and Instagram if you would like."

What do you know about our bookstore?

"As an avid reader, I often purchase gifts for my friends and family centered around books. I have checked out your website and followed you on Facebook and Instagram. You also have great reviews from your loyal customers on Yelp. All of these things make me excited to work here."

Before your job interview, make sure you are familiar with the company mission and values. You could visit the company website, read employee reviews or talk to anyone you know that works there. Learn as much as you can! Your interest in current seasonal promotions and ongoing events will show them how well you would integrate into this position. Watch the videos on their website or social media and take note of the information on their careers page if one is available. Be prepared to talk about how much you appreciate their values such as doing book drives for the community schools. Whatever their mission is, you need to know it.

"I come to your bookstore weekly! I'm passionate about reading and love that you do author readings each week showcasing new talent and promoting the lost art of hard copy reading material."

"I am familiar with all of the community efforts your bookstore facilitates. Local author readings and book signings are an excellent way for our city to become familiar with talent in their city. I also greatly appreciate the fact that you have fundraised 10,000 books in the past three years for underprivileged children. These are all reasons why I am excited to join your business."

"I followed you on Facebook and saw the pictures of your store. Your store seems to offer a great collection of books and a wide selection of games, movies, and music as well. I really like that you have a variety of options. It gets me excited about working here."

How often do you find yourself reading?

"I read every single day before I go to bed. I am an avid reader, and this practice also helps me to sleep better because it shuts my brain off from television and my phone."

Your potential employer is interested in knowing that you are passionate about reading. Here is your opportunity to shine and share your love of reading. If you are a writer, be sure to share that information with the interviewer.

"I try to read a significant novel each month. In between, I chip away at other special interest books. I like to be up to speed on current events, so often find myself doing further research after reading an article on a specific story."

"At this particular time, I am writing my first novel. The majority of reading that I do is related to research for my book. I am passionate about both reading, and writing."

"I try to read as often as I can. I read at least one book a month. It helps me relax and escape the world for a long period of time."

What is your favorite genre of books?

"I enjoy learning more about the environment. Subjects such as environmental sustainability and global warming interest me. What is your favorite genre?"

The interviewer will be interested to know what type of books you like to read. Take the opportunity to relay information about some of your all-time favorite reads within that genre. It's a great idea to ask the question in turn so that you can get to know your interviewer on a more personal level."

"I enjoy a wide range of genres; however, if I had to choose a specific genre I would say science fiction. I love how I can get lost in a sci-fi book for hours at a time."

"I mostly read fantasy; I like getting lost in new worlds, but I am trying to broaden my horizons into other genres."

What was the last book you read?

"It seems the only books I have been reading are my university textbooks! I recently purchased 'When Breath Becomes Air' by Paul Kalanithi. I plan to read this during reading week."

Interviewers like hearing that you read and look forward to learning from books! Share what book you last read. Did you read a great fiction book on the beach during your last vacation? Or, maybe you read an excellent business book this past month. Perhaps you and your spouse have been reading a marriage book together. Just share what book you last read!

"I love reading and am currently reading through the Harry Potter series. It is a different genre from the books I typically read, but I have great respect for the author and wish to challenge myself as a reader. My spouse is also reading it, and we enjoy sharing our perspectives on the series."

"I usually have three books on the go at one time. Fiction, personal development, and historical. Currently, I am reading John Grisham's 'The Whistler,' 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle, and 'Killing the Rising Sun' by Bill O'Reilly."

"The last book I read was "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo." Everyone was raving about it, and I was curious as to why. After reading it, I see why most people liked it. I really liked the main character's honesty."

We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught an employee stealing?

"If I caught an employee stealing, I would report the incident immediately. As a previous manager, I understand the value of employee honesty."

The interviewer would like to know that they can trust you to report theft and dishonesty in the workplace. Some businesses have trouble with employee theft, and they need to make sure that they are hiring someone who is honest and trustworthy. Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you caught a co-worker stealing.

"I am sure that you have an internal policy for employee theft so I can assure you that I would follow the required steps to report the theft. I am a trustworthy person with a strong track record of honesty with my previous employers."

"When I work for an organization, I take pride in the work we are doing. With focus on delivering value to a company wherever possible, I would feel obligated to report a co-worker stealing from the company. I will refer to any policy or guidelines available and speak to the manager about the incident."

"I would report the incident immediately and follow any other guidelines or procedures you have for this incident."

Are you a reliable person? Tell me about your punctuality and accountability on the job.

"I was raised to believe that you should be 10 minutes early for everything. My proactive nature typically leads me to arrive at work early to prepare for a successful day ahead. I am very reliable and punctual."

Assure the interviewer that you are reliable and can be counted on to work in a non-traditional 9-5 work environment. Here is your chance to highlight your work ethic and show the value that you can offer.

"I pride myself on being reliable and going above and beyond in my role. I take personal accountability for my work and provide a great example to my coworkers."

"I am punctual and reliable, indeed! You are welcome to call my references as well. In addition to being reliable, I enjoy learning how I can add value to my employer, even if it is outside the scope of my role's expectations. I'm someone you can count on to deliver quality service and a long-term fit."

"I always make sure to arrive 10 to 15 minutes to any places or meet ups. I am always prepared for any occasion as well. I take responsibility for all my work at home and school."

Tell me about your last job. What was your favorite part of the role and why did you leave?

"My last job was working as a cashier in a movie theatre. I enjoyed the work, and the perks were great; however, the late hours were not conducive to my school schedule. I look forward to bringing my customer service skills to work for you."

The interviewer will be interested in learning more about the transferable skills from your last role. Here is your opportunity to focus in on customer service in a retail environment. You will want to position your job change as positively as possible. Perhaps you needed more hours, or the business closed.

"My last role was in a retail clothing establishment. In my previous role, I enjoyed building relationships with customers and making the shopping experience memorable with a personal touch. While fashion is fun, I value surrounding myself with like-minded people. As a lover of books, this place speaks to me like home."

"I worked for a fashion retailer that recently closed their doors. Now, I am looking to grow professionally and reach my personal goals of being a writer. Working in a bookstore would provide me with the experience and platform to work towards those goals."

"I do not have any prior work experience in retail. This is my first time entering the workforce. I do have unpaid and volunteering experiences from school."

Why do you want to work here?

"I have a friend who works here in the summer months, between semesters, and he said it's the best job he's ever held. He recommended that I apply here because I am equally passionate about research and reading. I would be a great resource for your customers."

The interviewer wants to hear that you are passionate about working for them. Think of the aspects you like most about this bookstore. Perhaps you have a friend who works there and loves it. Maybe you are looking forward to a significant discount on books. Just share what you like most about the company, and share that this is a big part of why you want to work for this organization.

"I am a passionate shopper of your store and an avid reader who loves to share that with others. As an inspiring writer, I would love to surround myself with up and coming authors and readers. As a customer, I believe in your store's values around customer care and the services you provide to the community."

"I have worked for larger big-box book retailers which makes me value, even further, the worth that small business brings to our community. I want to be a part of the movement that gets kids off of their phones, and interested in books again! I have some great ideas for community reading initiatives."

"I like reading, but I also like being surrounded by a wide selection of books. Your bookstore feels like a library with your great collection, and I also like the ambiance of your store."

How many hours would you like to work per week?

"I am currently attending school but my class schedule is fairly flexible, and I would be willing to work as many hours as available."

Share with the interviewer the ideal work schedule for which you are looking. If you have restrictions on your schedule, this is the time to mention these. Typically, interviewers will look for someone with flexible availability. If this is you, take the opportunity to showcase your willingness to work whenever needed.

"I would like to work as many hours as possible! My availability is flexible, and I am ideally seeking a full-time position."

"I am seeking a part-time position, as advertised. I would like to work my hours around my kids' school schedule but am flexible with some notice."

What is your favorite book?

"My all-time favorite book is Sense and Sensibility. I am a huge Jane Austen fan and have read about 12 of her books so far. Some of them multiple times!"

The interviewer just wants to know what type of books you like to read. There is no right or wrong answer here. Take the opportunity to relay information about some of your all-time favorite reads. This is an excellent opportunity to start a conversation by asking the interviewer about their favorite reads as well.

"I am an avid reader and am known for always having a book in my purse. I have too many favorite books to list but a few in my top five include Walden, The Razer's Edge, How to Make Friends and Influence People, and Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. I follow many world leader book recommendations and expand my reading list as often as possible. From Bill Gates to Oprah, I am always looking for a recommendation on new, great reading material!"

"That is a great question. It's hard to choose, but I would have to say that my all-time favorite book is The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. What would you say is your favorite book?"

In your opinion, what separates us from the big box bookstores and popular websites?

"A sense of community is an important value to me. This is not something that larger big-box stores, or e-commerce, can provide."

This question offers you the opportunity to show off your love for local business! Focus on the sense of community and personal touch a local bookstore provides as opposed to a big-box corporation. What separates may include local events, customer care with a personal touch and community involvement.

"Your store is one of the major attractions of this community. As a regular shopper here, the management is great, and your team does a fantastic job at making each customer experience memorable. This experience is not something you can find in a larger, corporate retail store or even when shopping online."

"I see that you hire with discernment. This discernment means that each employee in your store in knowledgeable, an avid reader, and an incredible resource for your patrons. This experience makes all the difference for me. Also, your coffee shop offers decadent treats, and I appreciate that you give 10% of your profits back to the community."

"Your store provides a sense of community, which big book retailers can't provide."

How often do you shop for books here?

"I have shopped here many times before and am a big advocate for supporting local business. Every experience in your bookstore is positive which is why I am applying here. Your customer service is excellent, and your coffee shop makes the best macchiatos!"

Any store loves to hire people who are passionate about their company. Good customers are your best advocates, so it's a great idea to turn them into dedicated employees. Now is your opportunity to share any specific customer experiences you have had there. Be sure to tell the interviewer how frequently you shop at their bookstore.

"I frequently shop for books for myself, and others, at your bookstore. I appreciate that you offer free coffee to keep me shopping for awhile and have the latest selection of books that interest me. Your gift section is great as well. I would say that I shop here at least twice per month."

"I shop for books here probably once per month. Your customer service comes through when needed, which is what keeps me coming back. I once custom ordered a book from your store. There was an issue, and the book did not arrive for six weeks. Your team went above and beyond in keeping me informed and providing 20% off when the book finally arrived. That level of customer care is not something you can find on Amazon or elsewhere. It was the personal touch that keeps me an avid customer."

"This is actually my first time being here. I have heard great comments about this place and planned on coming in. I checked out your Facebook page first and saw the job post there, and thought that I should apply since I always wanted to work at a bookstore."

Bookstore Interview Questions

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1. Bookstores continue to struggle, why do you believe they will always be around?
2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
3. How many days were you absent from work last year?
4. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
5. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.
6. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
7. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
8. Do you have any leadership experience in a retail environment?
9. Have you had sales goals in any previous roles?
10. If a customer was looking for a particular book that we did not have, how would you turn that into a sale?
11. Are you comfortable handling a cash register and managing transactions?
12. Do you have a favorite author?
13. How would you keep a customer engaged and excited about being in our store?
14. What do you know about our bookstore?
15. How often do you find yourself reading?
16. What is your favorite genre of books?
17. What was the last book you read?
18. We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught an employee stealing?
19. Are you a reliable person? Tell me about your punctuality and accountability on the job.
20. Tell me about your last job. What was your favorite part of the role and why did you leave?
21. Why do you want to work here?
22. How many hours would you like to work per week?
23. What is your favorite book?
24. In your opinion, what separates us from the big box bookstores and popular websites?
25. How often do you shop for books here?

Bookstore Interview Questions

1. Bookstores continue to struggle, why do you believe they will always be around?

2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?

3. How many days were you absent from work last year?

4. What type of manager brings out the best in you?

5. Give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond.

6. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

7. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?

8. Do you have any leadership experience in a retail environment?

9. Have you had sales goals in any previous roles?

10. If a customer was looking for a particular book that we did not have, how would you turn that into a sale?

11. Are you comfortable handling a cash register and managing transactions?

12. Do you have a favorite author?

13. How would you keep a customer engaged and excited about being in our store?

14. What do you know about our bookstore?

15. How often do you find yourself reading?

16. What is your favorite genre of books?

17. What was the last book you read?

18. We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught an employee stealing?

19. Are you a reliable person? Tell me about your punctuality and accountability on the job.

20. Tell me about your last job. What was your favorite part of the role and why did you leave?

21. Why do you want to work here?

22. How many hours would you like to work per week?

23. What is your favorite book?

24. In your opinion, what separates us from the big box bookstores and popular websites?

25. How often do you shop for books here?